Aalborg Zoo in northern Denmark has made an unusual request to the public: donate unwanted small pets or horses to be used as food for the zoo’s carnivorous animals. The zoo shared this appeal through a social media post, emphasizing that this practice helps maintain a natural diet for its predators.
According to the zoo, offering whole prey mirrors the hunting patterns these animals would follow in the wild, thus promoting more natural behavior and better overall welfare.
Zoo Promotes Ethical Feeding Practices with Whole Prey Donations and Strict Intake Guidelines
In their statement, the zoo underscored its commitment to simulating a natural food chain, citing both ethical and professional obligations. Predators at the zoo, such as big cats and birds of prey, require whole animals like chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs as part of their diet.
The zoo asserts that this approach ensures nutritional balance and encourages natural feeding behaviors, which are essential for the mental and physical well-being of captive carnivores.
The zoo outlined clear procedures for those wishing to donate small animals. Healthy chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs are accepted during weekdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a limit of four animals per visit. Once donated, the animals are gently euthanized by trained personnel and then used as food. Aalborg Zoo highlighted that this process ensures nothing is wasted, and aligns with its goals of sustainability and ethical animal care.
Horse Donations Accepted with Guidelines, Seasonal Demand, and Tax Deduction Opportunities for Donors
In addition to small pets, the zoo also accepts horses for use as predator food. However, strict conditions apply. Donated horses must not have been treated for illness for at least a month prior to donation, must fall within certain size limits, and must be deemed safe for transport.
Euthanasia of these larger animals is carried out by both a veterinarian and a zookeeper. As an incentive, the zoo notes that donors of horses may be eligible for tax deductions based on the animal’s value.
The zoo clarified that its demand for animal donations can fluctuate throughout the year. As such, potential donors are advised to contact the zoo in advance, as there may be a waiting list depending on the time of year and current needs.
Aalborg Zoo’s initiative, while potentially controversial, is rooted in a desire to provide the most natural and humane care possible for its predatory animals, while also offering a practical solution for pet owners looking to rehome animals.
